Orlando Pirates Legend Issues Warning over Ouaddou’s Team Selections
- Orlando Pirates’ strong start to the season has not stopped questions over how the squad is being managed
- Steve Lekoelea has pointed to one decision that could become a concern as the season progresses
- The Pirates legend believes recent performances offer an important clue about player confidence
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Source: Twitter
Orlando Pirates legend Steve Lekoelea has warned head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou that his frequent changes to the starting XI could eventually backfire, despite the team’s impressive results.
Pirates strengthened their position at the top of the Betway Premiership with a 4-0 victory over Kruger United at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday, 1 September 2026. However, Lekoelea believes the constant rotation could affect player momentum.
“The Orlando Pirates starting line-up changes a lot; the first XI is being changed too much,” Lekoelea told KickOff.
Lekoelea highlights Radiopane example
The former Orlando Pirates playmaker specifically pointed to Boitumelo Radiopane, who scored and assisted before being left out of the following match.
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“I find it very difficult to understand. Maybe the coach is trying to give every player in the team a chance… I don't know,” Lekoelea said as reported by KickOff.
“Somewhere, somehow, it will backfire.”
He also highlighted Yanela Mbuthuma, who continued receiving opportunities despite struggling in front of goal before scoring twice against Kruger United.
Source: Twitter
Pirates prepare for CAF Champions League
Orlando Pirates now turn their attention to the CAF Champions League after their 4-0 win over Kruger United, with Steve Lekoelea stressing the importance of maintaining player momentum.
The Pirates legend has questioned Abdeslam Ouaddou’s frequent changes to his starting XI, particularly when players are performing well.
“Resting a player who is performing well will only kill his momentum, especially doing that to a player like Radiopane,” Lekoelea told KickOff.
Pirates face La Cure Sylvester SC in Mauritius on Sunday in the first leg of their preliminary-round tie.
Lekoelea also believes Pirates benefited from lessons learned during their pre-season trip to Spain.
The continental clash will now provide Ouaddou with another test as Pirates look to maintain their strong start.
Pirates face team with players earning R5,000 monthly
Briefly News previously reported that Orlando Pirates are heading to Mauritius for a CAF Champions League clash that highlights a striking difference between the 2 clubs.
Former Mauritius international Patrice D’Avrincourt said most players in the country earn around R5,000 per month, while only a handful earn about R17,000. The wage gap adds an intriguing layer to Pirates’ upcoming continental assignment.
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Source: Briefly News
